Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: No data available
A unique proposition, distinctive from the usual (German) contenders, high-performance CTS-V model and its sharp handling
Quality not quite what it should be, not much rear legroom, unforgiving ride, no diesel option
Hugely amusing CTS-V is a credible sports saloon, and well worth a look; V6s are less convincing
The stiffly-sprung suspension had to have a pay-off, and the CTS has a noisy, unforgiving ride. Prone to jarring on poorly-surfaced roads and jolting over bumps, it's no limo. The CTS-V, perversely, seems to ride better than the V6s. However, all versions have body roll well-contained, with no tendency to pitch or wallow, and are entirely tolerable at motorway speeds. Those engines are noisy, though, to an irritating extent in the V6s though you can forgive the CTS-V, with its suitably souped-up exhaust and big V8 rumble. Bonus points for the front seats, which are generously-proportioned and supportive, and for the understated, monochrome finish of the CTS-V's cabin - a big improvement over the horrid fake wood in the V6 models. The leather upholstery is surprisingly decent quality, too. Car-spotters will enjoy identifying the generic GM touches, which spoil the notion of exclusivity: the air vents look remarkably similar to those used in the Saab 9-5, for example, and many of the controls, switches and minor details look rather familiar. The CTS redeems itself in terms of equipment levels: standard equipment on UK cars, badged Elegance or Sport Luxury, includes a full set of armrests and cupholders, dual-zone climate control, an eight-way adjustable, heated driver's and front passenger seat with lumbar support, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a Bose six-CD sound system, power-folding/heated door mirrors and 16-inch machined-aluminium wheels. Sport Luxury versions add the leather interior, 17-inch wheels and xenon headlamps with washers; options include a sunroof, satellite navigation and metallic paint.
